Changing from Pacemaker to ICD

In October 2015 I was implanted with a pacemaker to treat Complete Heart Block. I recently received genetic testing results and the the findings suggest a type of cardiomyopothy that has a high occurrence of SCD - so, I may need my pacemaker removed and an ICD put in. A couple of questions:

1. Has anyone else had this done - what was your experience?
2. Are there additional leads with an ICD or different leads, or is it just the device that is different and will need to be changed

Thanks

2 Comments

Chanigng

by GrandmaD - 2016-01-27 05:01:49

I am not sure, but my understanding is that an ICD requires more leads than a pacemaker. My original PM was changed in 2012. At that time I had to have one lead replaced that was no longer able to work where it was, and as well I had to have a new lead put in which basically takes over the defib part. I too am in 3rd degree heart block with heart failure thrown in for good measure! The replacement was not hard, it was done as day surgury and the only problem iI had was bruising form my shoulder to my hip. The ICD has a tendancy to be bigger and they need to expand the "pouch" it sits in. No big deal and the extra security is something we all need. Best of luck to you.

Deb

Had it done about 2 1/2 years ago

by parmeterr - 2016-01-28 12:01:37

Changed from a Medtronic Adapta (two lead) to a ICD Protecta CRT-D (three lead). Yes, there are three leads with the bi-ventricular model. Kept the same atrial lead and had a new right ventricular lead and a new left ventricular lead. Could not get the right ventricular lead out and had to cut it off and cap it. The right ventricular lead is special because it carries both the pulse and the shock if necessary. Not a big deal. Did not have any problems. Recovered nicely. Went back to work within a couple of days.

Richard

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